What Are the Penalties for Marijuana Possession?

 Posted on April 25, 2024 in Criminal Defense

While marijuana is not charged as harshly as other drugs, you can still end up with a jail sentence and fines if you are found to possess marijuana in the state of Texas. Possession charges in the state vary based on how much marijuana you are found to have, and these charges can impact your future if they end up on your criminal record.

A skilled Texas drug defense lawyer is necessary to help you navigate any marijuana charges you face and minimize their impact on your life.

Understanding Texas Marijuana Possession Charges

Texas is one of many states that still prosecute marijuana possession and use, and these charges vary in severity depending on how much is in your possession. In general, the penalties associated with marijuana possession include the following:

• Class B misdemeanor – marijuana possession of two ounces or less, resulting in up to 180 days of jail time and a fine of up to $2,000
• Class A misdemeanor – marijuana possession of between two to four ounces may result in a jail sentence of up to a year and a fine of up to $4,000
• State jail felony – marijuana possession of between four ounces and five pounds, resulting in between 180 days and two years of jail time and a fine of up to $10,000
• Third-degree felony – marijuana possession of between five and 50 pounds carries a jail sentence of between two and ten years plus a fine of up to $10,000
• Second-degree felony – marijuana possession of between 50 and 2,000 pounds, resulting in two to 20 years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000
• First-degree felony – marijuana possession of more than 2,000 pounds carries a penalty of between five and 99 years to life in jail and a fine of up to $50,000

How Do I Deal With Marijuana Charges in Texas?

Dealing with marijuana charges in Texas is not something you should do alone, as it can be easy to get overwhelmed by Texas's criminal system. In order to deal with these charges and ensure your rights are protected, you will need an experienced Texas drug defense lawyer on your side.

Your attorney can investigate your case's facts and help build a defense against your charges that works to minimize the penalties you face. This is helpful as drug charges on your criminal record can significantly impact your future, including your ability to obtain employment. 

Contact a Llano, TX Drug Defense Lawyer

Even though marijuana is becoming more accepted across the United States, you can still face harsh punishments for possessing even a small amount of this drug in Texas. If you are facing marijuana possession charges, contacting a knowledgeable Llano County, TX, drug defense attorney right away is essential.

Attorney Russ Baker has more than 15 years of complex legal experience, and his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology provides him with unique qualifications to handle drug cases and those with scientific evidence. Contact Law Office of Russ Alan Baker, PLLC at 325-216-2006 for a consultation.